penchant
A penchant is a strong, habitual liking for something or a tendency to do something. Think of it as an intellectual or aesthetic "pull" toward a specific interest, hobby, or activity that you find yourself returning to again and again. This word is slightly formal and implies a refined or specific preference rather than a simple "like." It is frequently used with the preposition "for," such as having a "penchant for drama" or a "penchant for expensive watches."
In conversation
Discussing a friend's habits
Why does Mark always show up in a tuxedo?
Why does Mark always show up in a tuxedo?
He just has a real penchant for the dramatic.
He just has a real penchant for the dramatic.
Used to describe a consistent, slightly eccentric personality trait.
Ordering dessert
Can I get you anything else?
Can I get you anything else?
I have a penchant for dark chocolate, so the lava cake sounds perfect.
I have a penchant for dark chocolate, so the lava cake sounds perfect.
Highlights a specific, recurring preference.
Examples
She has a penchant for collecting vintage postcards.
She has a penchant for collecting vintage postcards.
Despite his quiet nature, he developed a penchant for public speaking later in life.
Despite his quiet nature, he developed a penchant for public speaking later in life.
The architect’s penchant for minimalist design is evident in every structure he creates.
The architect’s penchant for minimalist design is evident in every structure he creates.
